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XLR interconnects

I read that XLR interconnects can maintain the signal over longer distances therefore it is ideal to use an XLR interconnect over rca unbalanced cables. Why then do you see cable manufacture companies produce 0.5 m, 1m, 2m, 3m interconnects for audio gear? What is difference over a 1m, 2m, 3m rca unbalanced cable? Is there any sound differences?

2007audioman
2007audioman
perazzi28's avatar
perazzi28
233 posts
 
Experimentation with Single Ended RCA interconnects and XLR interconnects may prove enlightening.
Many preamplifiers have no issue driving single ended interconnects for a fair distance.  My interconnects are 5' long and I have no issues. It can also help to use shielded cable in your interconnects if you happen to find some artifact or noise with single ended.  Belden 9259 is inexpensive and a wonderful sounding interconnect.
In general terms XLR interconnects have the most benefit in home theater configurations.  Home audio rarely benefits unless your circumstances are unusual.
Good luck
crazyeddy's avatar
crazyeddy
381 posts
 

@cleeds 

I have not seen a locking RCA. Could you enlighten me?

The reason I like the way XLR's lock in place, is primarily when I am swapping out one piece of gear or cables from my pre-amp. I have to push my pre to the back of it's shelf, disconnect IC's, reconnect IC's, and then pull the pre-amp back to the front of it's shelf. As carful as I am, there is always the risk of an RCA slipping out(It's happened to me before). Not so with the XLR's. I'm sure that many members can relate to this issue. Again, I am NOT referring to any sonic differences between the two. That's a whole other can of worms.

Ag insider logo xs@2x
cleeds
5,961 posts
 
crazyeddy

I have not seen a locking RCA. Could you enlighten me?
Sorry, offering enlightenment is above my pay grade. ;|

But if you're interested in locking RCA connectors, look into WBT and DH Labs. There are probably other vendors as well.
crazyeddy's avatar
crazyeddy
381 posts
 

HAHA Good one cleeds. I'll have a look at these. I am not interested in going back to RCA IC's, but I am curious to see how these lock.


Cheers

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